WORKPLACE - 21.08.2018

A deep green clean

Flower power

Established in 1992, the EU Ecolabel is a voluntary scheme. Products and services that comply with the criteria carry a flower symbol. At the last count there were nearly 54,100 products and services with the label. It is regularly expanded, and for each new category, criteria and guidelines must be developed.

Cleaned up

In May 2018 the European Commission published the new set of criteria for cleaning services. This provides guidelines for companies looking to reassure customers that claims can be trusted, and the products are safe to use as well as environmentally friendly (see The next step ).

There are seven mandatory criteria relating to: (1)  use of products with low environmental impact; (2) dosages used; (3) use of microfibres; (4) staff training; (5) environmental management systems; (6) waste management; and (7) information provided on labels. All companies need to meet these to qualify.

Scores on the board

There are also twelve optional criteria, each of which carry a certain number of points. For example, if 95% of the products used have an Ecolabel, that’s three points, but if it’s 65%, only one point is given. Class A energy use vacuum cleaners carry three points, and if 50% of the company’s vehicles meet Euro 6 emission standards that’s one point. There are even points available for providing the client with a list of the tasks to be carried out.

Companies need to score at least 14 points, from a possible 43.

Note. At least half the products used need to carry the EU Ecolabel. Plus, there are additional rules, e.g. detergents must have biodegradable surfactants and comply with strict restrictions on hazardous substances.

Criteria

Companies have to prove that staff have been through training on dosages, applications, waste management, etc.

As energy and water use have significant environmental impacts, those signed up must ensure that washing cycle temperatures are low, e.g. 30°C rather than 90°C. Plus, at least 50% of the cloths, mopheads, etc. must be microfibre, which use less water.

Note. There’s a great deal of interest in chemicals and indoor air pollution, so the EU Ecolabel certification could be useful for those looking to prove green credentials to win private or public sector tenders. Any cleaning service can apply for the label; it’s possible to certify the whole company or just some of the services provided.

Tip. Most cleaning services will say they are “green” these days but if you want to be sure, look for those with the new EU Ecolabel. Of course, they have to pay to be certified so expect a bit of a premium.

For a link to further information on the Ecolabel scheme, visit http://tipsandadvice-environment.co.uk/download (EN 13.03.02).